Carton, blank, and method of folding

ABSTRACT

A carton defines a bottom wall, a first side wall coupled to the bottom wall, a second side wall disposed opposite the first side wall and coupled to the bottom wall, a first end wall coupled to both the bottom wall and first and second side walls, and a second end wall disposed opposite the first end wall and coupled to both the bottom wall and the first and second side walls. The carton is formed from a blank having a first side and a second side disposed opposite said first side. The first side defines the interior surface of the bottom wall and the interior and exterior surfaces of the first and second side walls and the first and second end walls.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

The present invention relates to a carton, to a blank and method forforming the carton, and more particularly to a carton formed from ablank having a first side and a second side, the first side defining theinterior surface of the carton's bottom wall and the interior andexterior surfaces of the carton's side and end walls.

2. Description of Related Art

Reusable plastic crates (RPCs) are widely-used in the grocery industryfor transporting, storing, and distributing foods such as fresh fruitsand vegetables. Advantages of RPCs include a stackable interlockingdesign, a “display ready” design that can significantly reduce stockingtime, and a foldable design that reduces storage space and transportcosts by allowing the containers to be folded when not in use.Disadvantages of RPCs include the risk of loss/theft and a relativelyhigh cost resulting from the need to wash and sanitize the RPCs aftereach use and transport them to a facility for that purpose.

More recently, single-use, corrugated alternatives to RPCs have beenused. FIG. 4A shows a blank 90 for forming a carton 300 according to theprior art. The blank 90 includes a treated side and an untreated side.The treated side can be printed with, e.g., informational or promotionalinformation such as a brand name or logo and/or treated with one or morecoatings such as, e.g., one or more waterproof coatings. Outer sidepanels 114, 118 are folded up about bottom panel 116 to form the outerside walls of the carton 300. Inner side panels 112, 120 are folded downinto the interior of the carton 300 to form the carton's inner sidewalls. Inner end flaps 122, 124, 138, 140 are folded to form the innerend walls of the carton 300. Outer end flaps 126, 128, 134, 136 aresandwiched between inner end flaps and end panels 130, 132 which fold upto form the carton's outer end walls. Side tabs F11 and F12 fold downinto the interior of the carton to form stacking tabs that project froman upper edge of the carton's side walls. Cutouts C15 in inner and outerend flaps align with one another and with cutouts C17 to form handlesthat extend completely through the carton's end walls.

There are several drawbacks to the approach taken with carton 300.First, the carton 300 does not provide a smooth or visually cleaninterior as a result of the inwardly-folded stacking tabs and inner endflaps. The irregularities in the interior surface of the carton 300caused by these structures may also increase the risk of damage to thecarton's contents. These irregularities may also interfere with thevisibility and/or clarity of any content printed on the interior sideand end walls. The arrangement of carton 300 also results in thecarton's interior bottom surface being formed from the untreated side ofthe blank. This configuration may be considered aestheticallyunappealing and/or represent a missed opportunity to present branding orother promotional content to customers. Finally, the configuration ofthe handles, which extend completely through the carton's end walls, mayincrease the risk of “finger poke” damage to the carton's contents. Thepresent invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems ofthe prior art.

The conventional techniques have been considered satisfactory for theirintended purpose. However, there is an ever present need for improvedsystems and methods for cartons, blanks, and methods of folding. Thisdisclosure provides a solution for this need.

SUMMARY

A carton for containing a plurality of articles includes a bottom wall,a first side wall coupled to the bottom wall, a second side walldisposed opposite the first side wall and coupled to the bottom wall, afirst end wall coupled to both the bottom wall and the first and secondside walls, and a second end wall disposed opposite the first end walland coupled to both the bottom wall and the first and second side walls.Each of the bottom wall, the first and second side walls, and the firstand second end walls define both an interior surface disposed adjacentan interior space defined by the carton and an exterior surface.

The carton can be formed from a blank having a first surface and asecond surface disposed opposed opposite to the first surface. Theinterior surface of the bottom wall, and the interior and exteriorsurfaces of the first and second side walls and first and second endwalls can each defined substantially entirely by the first surface. Thefirst side wall, second side wall, first end wall, and second end wallcan define an upper edge opposite the bottom wall, wherein the upperedge defines rectangular portions that follow a rectangle, and whereinthe upper edge defines at least one edge portion that is obliquerelative to rectangular portions.

The blank can include a plurality of main panels hinged together in alinear series, the plurality of main panels comprising first and secondinner side panels, first and second outer side panels, and a bottompanel. The first outer side panel can be hingedly connected to the firstinner side panel, the first inner side panel can be hingedly connectedto the bottom panel, the bottom panel can be hingedly connected to thesecond inner side panel, and the second inner side panel can be hingedlyconnected to the second outer side panel. The first outer side panel candefine the exterior surface of the first side wall, the first inner sidepanel can define the interior surface of the first side wall, the bottompanel can define the exterior and interior surfaces of the bottom wall,the second inner side panel can define the interior surface of thesecond side wall, and the second outer side panel can define theexterior surface of the second side wall. First and second end panelscan hingedly connected to the bottom panel at respective opposite endsof the bottom panel, wherein the first end panel defines the interiorsurface of the first end wall and wherein the second end panel definesthe interior surface of the second end wall.

The blank can include first and second inner end flaps hingedlyconnected to the first inner side panel at respective opposite ends ofthe first inner side panel. The blank can include third and fourth innerend flaps hingedly connected to the second inner side panel atrespective opposite ends of the second inner side panel. The blank caninclude first and second outer end flaps hingedly connected to the firstouter side panel at respective opposite ends of the first outer sidepanel. Third and fourth outer end flaps can be hingedly connected to thesecond outer side panel at respective opposite ends of the second outerside panel.

The first and third outer end flaps can define the exterior surface ofthe first end wall along a first perimeter length of the upper edge. Thefirst end panel can be adjacent the first and third inner end flaps andcan define a second length along the upper edge that is greater than thefirst length so that the first end panel bows inward to define the atleast one edge portion that is oblique relative to rectangular portions.The first inner end flap can be connected to the first inner side panelby first oblique corner panel. The third inner end flap can be connectedto the second inner side panel through a second oblique corner panel,wherein the first and second oblique corner panels can define the atleast one edge portion that is oblique relative to the rectangularportions.

The first outer end flap can be foldably connected directly to the firstouter side panel by a fold line without an intervening oblique cornerpanel, wherein the first oblique corner panel, first outer side panel,and first outer end flap surround a first triangular corner pocket. Thethird outer end flap can be connected directly to the second outer sidepanel by a fold line without an intervening corner panel, wherein thesecond oblique corner panel, the second outer side panel, and the thirdouter end flap surround a second triangular corner pocket. The first andsecond triangular corner pockets can form a first pair of pockets at afirst end of the interior space. The interior space can have a secondend opposite the first end, wherein the second end includes a secondpair of pockets mirroring the first pair of pockets.

The first outer end flap can be connected to the first outer side panelby a third oblique corner panel that overlies the first oblique cornerpanel and forms a portion of the exterior surface. The third outer endflap can be connected to the second outer side panel by a fourth obliquecorner panel that overlies the second oblique corner panel and forms aportion of the exterior surface. The first, second, third, and forthoblique corner panels can form a first pair of oblique corners of theinterior and exterior surfaces at a first end of the interior space. Theinterior space can have a second end opposite the first end whichincludes a second pair of oblique corners mirroring the first pair ofoblique corners.

A method of forming a carton includes providing a blank as describedabove. The method includes folding the first outer side panel back ontothe first inner side panel and securing it thereto such that secondblank side surfaces of the first outer side panel and the first innerside panel are coupled together in a face-contacting relationship. Themethod includes folding the second outer side panel back onto the firstinner side panel and securing it thereto such that second blank sidesurfaces of the second outer side panel and the second inner side panelare coupled together in a face-contacting relationship. The first outerside panel and the first inner side panel are folded about the bottompanel so as to form a first side wall of the carton, an exterior surfaceof the first side wall being defined by a first blank side surface ofthe first outer side panel and an interior surface of the first sidewall being defined by a first blank side surface of the first inner sidepanel, a first blank side surface of the bottom panel defining aninterior surface of a bottom wall of the carton. The method includesfolding the second outer side panel and the second inner side panelabout the bottom panel so as to form a second side wall of the carton,an exterior surface of the second side wall being defined by a firstblank side surface of the second outer side panel and an interiorsurface of the second side wall being defined by a first blank sidesurface of the second inner side panel. The first and second end panelsare folded about the bottom panel to form respective first and secondend walls of the carton, a first blank side surface of the first endpanel defining an interior surface of the first end wall, a first blankside surface of the second end panel defining an interior surface of thesecond end wall. The method includes folding the first and third innerend flaps and the first and third outer end flaps into an overlappingarrangement with a second blank side of the first end panel and securingthem thereto, a first blank side surface of the first and third outerend flaps defining an exterior surface of the first end wall. The secondand fourth inner end flaps and the second and fourth outer end flaps arefolded into an overlapping arrangement with a second blank side of thesecond end panel and securing them thereto, a first blank side surfaceof the second and fourth outer end flaps defining an exterior surface ofthe second end wall so the first side wall, second side wall, first endwall, and second end wall define an upper edge opposite the bottom wall,wherein the upper edge defines rectangular portions that follow arectangle, and wherein the upper edge defines at least one edge portionthat is oblique relative to rectangular portions.

Folding the first, second, third, and fourth inner end flaps and foldingthe first, second, third, and forth outer end flaps can include bowingthe first end panel inward to define the at least one edge portion thatis oblique relative to the rectangular portions. It is also contemplatedthat the method can include forming a first triangular corner pocketwherein the first oblique corner panel, first outer side panel, andfirst outer end flap surround a first triangular corner pocket andforming a second triangular pocket wherein the second oblique cornerpanel, the second outer side panel, and the third outer end flapsurround a second triangular corner pocket.

It is further contemplated that the method can include folding the firstouter end flap, wherein the first outer end flap is connected to thefirst outer side panel by a third oblique corner panel that overlies afirst oblique corner panel and forms a portion of the exterior surface,and folding the third outer end flap wherein the third outer end flap isconnected to the second outer side panel by a fourth oblique cornerpanel that overlies a second oblique corner panel and forms a portion ofthe exterior surface.

These and other features of the systems and methods of the subjectdisclosure will become more readily apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the following detailed description of the preferred embodimentstaken in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that those skilled in the art to which the subject disclosureappertains will readily understand how to make and use the devices andmethods of the subject disclosure without undue experimentation,preferred embodiments thereof will be described in detail herein belowwith reference to certain figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to anembodiment of the this disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of FIG.1;

FIG. 3A-3E are perspective views showing various steps in theconstruction of the carton of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4A is a plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to theprior art;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a prior art carton formed from theblank of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a carton inaccordance with this disclosure, showing a bowed edge portion;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a blank for forming the carton of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a carton inaccordance with this disclosure, showing triangular corner pockets;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a blank for forming the carton of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a carton inaccordance with this disclosure, showing an eight-sided exteriorsurface; and

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a blank for forming the carton of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks andcartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosedembodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects ofthe invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive listof all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, theword “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serveas illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will beunderstood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may beembodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are notnecessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimisedto show details of particular components. Well-known components,materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail inorder to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structuraland functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted aslimiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representativebasis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ theinvention.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the term “carton” refers, for thenon-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of theinvention, to a container for transporting, storing, and/or dispensingarticles, such as, e.g., fresh produce. However, it is contemplated thatthe teachings of the invention can be applied to various containerssuitable for carrying a wide variety of articles.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a first blank 10 for forming acarton 200 (see FIG. 2). The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of suitablesubstrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term“suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material suchas paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinationsthereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbersof blanks may be employed, for example, to provide the carton describedin more detail below.

In a preferred embodiment, blank 10 is formed from a paperboard,corrugated board, or cardboard in which one side of the blank, referredto herein as the “treated side,” is printed and/or treated with one ormore coatings, such as for example, one or more waterproof coatingsand/or one or more coatings designed to provide a smooth and/orvisually-attractive surface (e.g., a white or other colored surface). Inone or more embodiments, informational or promotional material such as,e.g., a brand name or logo, can be printed on the treated side.

Referring to FIG. 1, blank 10 is generally rectangular in shape andincludes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 hinged togetherin a linear series. End panels 30, 32 and end flaps 22, 24, 26, 28, 34,36, 38, 40 are hingedly connected at respective ends of a correspondingone of the main panels. In a set-up condition, the carton 200 forms anopen-topped structure having a base or bottom wall, first and secondside walls, and first and second end walls.

The blank 10 includes a first outer side panel 12 hinged to a firstinner side panel 14 by a fold line 42. The first inner side panel 14 ishinged to a bottom panel 16 by a fold line 44.

Bottom panel 16 is hinged to a second inner side panel 18 by a fold line46. Second inner side panel 18 is hinged to a second outer side panel 20by a fold line 48.

First outer side panel 12 is also hinged at a first end to first outerend flap 22 via fold line 50. First outer side panel 12 is hinged at asecond end to second outer end flap 24 via fold line 60.

First inner side panel 14 is also hinged at a first end to first innerend flap 26 via fold line 52. First inner side panel 14 is hinged at asecond end to second inner end flap 28 via fold line 62.

Bottom panel 16 is also hinged at a first end to first end panel 30 viafold line 54. Bottom panel 16 is hinged at a second end to second endpanel 32 via fold line 64.

Second inner side panel 18 is also hinged at a first end to a thirdinner end flap 34 via fold line 56. Second inner side panel 18 is hingedat a second end to a fourth inner end flap 36 via fold line 66.

Second outer side panel 20 is also hinged at a first end to a thirdouter end flap 38 via fold line 58. Second outer side panel 20 is hingedat a second end to a fourth outer end flap 40 via fold line 68.

In the illustrated embodiment, the various end flaps/end panels aredefined by, and separated from adjoining end flaps/panels by, severancelines that extend from opposite ends of a corresponding one of foldlines 42, 44, 46, 48.

First inner side panel 14 includes a plurality of first side tabs F1.First side tabs F1 interrupt fold line 42. Each of first side tabs F1 isdefined by a generally U-shaped severance line that extends from foldline 42 into an interior of first outer side panel 12. In theillustrated embodiment, blank 10 includes two first side tabs F1. Firstside tabs F1 are generally trapezoidal in shape. First side tabs F1 arehingedly connected to a remaining portion of first inner side panel 14via respective fold lines 43 a, 43 b. Fold lines 43 a, 43 b aregenerally parallel to fold line 42 but offset from fold line 42 in thedirection of first outer side panel 12.

Similarly, second inner side panel 18 includes a plurality of secondside tabs F2 that may generally mirror first side tabs F1. Second sidetabs F2 interrupt fold line 48. Each of second side tabs F2 is definedby a generally U-shaped severance line that extends from fold line 48into an interior of second outer side panel 20. In the illustratedembodiment, blank 10 includes two second side tabs F2. Second side tabsare generally trapezoidal in shape. Second side tabs F2 are hingedlyconnected to a remaining portion of second inner side panel 18 viarespective fold lines 49 a, 49 b. Fold lines 49 a, 49 b are generallyparallel to fold line 48 but offset from fold line 48 in the directionof second outer side panel 20.

Blank 10 includes a plurality of first side apertures C1. In theillustrated embodiment, blank 10 includes two first side apertures C1.Each of the first side apertures C1 is generally rectangular ortrapezoidal in shape. Each of the first side apertures C1 interruptsfold line 44 and is disposed such that the aperture extends into boththe bottom panel 16 and first inner side panel 14. Each of the firstside apertures C1 is aligned with a corresponding one of the first sidetabs F1 relative to a longitudinal axis of the blank 10.

Similarly, blank 10 includes a plurality of second side apertures C2that may generally mirror first side apertures C1. In the illustratedembodiment, blank 10 includes two second side apertures C2. Each of thesecond side apertures C2 is generally rectangular or trapezoidal inshape. Each of the second side apertures C2 interrupts fold line 46 andis disposed such that the aperture extends into both the bottom panel 16and second inner side panel 18. Each of the second side apertures C2 isaligned with a corresponding one of the second side tabs F2 relative toa longitudinal axis of the blank 10.

Blank 10 also includes at least one first end aperture C3. First endaperture C3 is generally rectangular or trapezoidal in shape. First endaperture C3 interrupts fold line 54 and is disposed such that theaperture extends into both the bottom panel 16 and first end panel 30.

Blank 10 also includes at least one second end aperture C4 that maygenerally mirror first end aperture C3. Second end aperture C4 isgenerally rectangular or trapezoidal in shape. Second end aperture C4interrupts fold line 64 and is disposed such that the aperture extendsinto both the bottom panel 16 and second end panel 32.

End flaps 22, 24, 26, 28, 34, 36, 38, 40 each include a generallyU-shaped cutout C5 disposed on an outer edge of the flap. Cutouts C5 ofthe first, second, third, and fourth outer end flaps 22, 24, 38, 40 areconfigured to align with and overlap respective cutouts C5 of the first,second, third, and fourth inner end flaps 26, 28, 34, 36 when the cartonis in the setup condition. End flaps 22, 24, 26, 28, 34, 36, 38, 40 eachinclude a generally rectangular-shaped cutout C6 disposed on an outercorner edge of the flap. Cutouts C6 of the first, second, third, andfourth outer end flaps 22, 24, 38, 40 are configured to align with andoverlap respective cutouts C6 of the first, second, third, and fourthinner end flaps 26, 28, 34, 36 when the carton is in the setupcondition. In addition, the various cutouts C6 are configured to alignwith and overlap a corresponding portion of either the first or secondend apertures C3, C4 when the carton is in the setup condition.

Blank 10 also includes four inner end flap apertures C7. Each of theinner end flap apertures C7 has a generally elongated rectangular shape.The inner end flap apertures C7 are disposed along a central length of,and interrupt, their respective fold lines 52, 62, 56, 66 such that theapertures extend into both their respective inner end flaps 26, 28, 34,36 and a respective one of first and second inner side panels 14, 18.Inner end flap apertures C7 may facilitate the overlapping foldingarrangement of inner and outer end flaps by removing some volume fromthe folded edges of the inner end flaps.

Turning to the construction of the carton as illustrated in FIG. 2, thecarton 200 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations.The folding process is not limited to that described below and may bealtered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Blank 10 is positioned with its treated surface facing up as shown inFIG. 3A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the untreated surfaceof first outer side panel 12 or, alternatively, to the untreated surfaceof first inner side panel 14. Glue or other adhesive treatment is alsoapplied to the untreated surface of tabs F1 or, alternatively, to acorresponding portion of the untreated surface of first inner side panel14. Glue or other adhesive treatment is also applied to the untreatedsurfaces of first and second inner end flaps 26, 28 or, alternatively tothe untreated surfaces of first and second outer end flaps 22, 24.

Glue or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the untreated surfaceof second outer side panel 20 or, alternatively, to the untreatedsurface of second inner side panel 18. Glue or other adhesive treatmentis also applied to the untreated surface of tabs F2 or, alternatively,to a corresponding portion of the untreated surface of second inner sidepanel 18. Glue or other adhesive treatment is also applied to theuntreated surfaces of third and fourth inner end flaps 34, 36 or,alternatively to the untreated surfaces of third and fourth outer endflaps 38, 40.

Inner side panels 14, 18 are folded inwardly about respective fold lines44, 46 while outer side panels 12, 20 are simultaneously folded backabout respective fold lines 42, 48. This results in thepartially-constructed carton shown in FIG. 3B.

The folding of blank 10 along fold lines 44, 46, 42, 48 is continueduntil the untreated surfaces of respective inner side panels 14, 18 andouter side panels 12, 20 are brought into face-contacting relationshipwith one another and secured together to form the carton's side walls.The untreated surfaces of inner end flaps 26, 28, 34, 36 are alsobrought into face-contacting relationship with the untreated surfaces ofrespective outer end flaps 22, 24, 38, 40 and secured thereto. Thefolding machinery (not shown) may include a fixed “hood” positioned oneach side of the partially-erected carton over the side panels at theapproximate height of the fully constructed side walls. As the sidewalls are folded into place, the tabs F1, F2 come into contact with thehood, causing them to be folded outwardly along respective fold lines 43a, 43 b, 49 a, 49 b until they are in a plane substantiallyperpendicular to that of the side walls. This results in thepartially-constructed shown in FIG. 3C.

Tabs F1 are then folded back fully about fold lines 43 a, 43 b and intoapertures in first outer side panel 12 that were defined by the tabs F1.These apertures allow the untreated surfaces of tabs F1 to be broughtinto face-contacting relationship with an untreated surface of firstinner side panel 14. The untreated surfaces of tabs F1 are secured tothe untreated surface of first inner side panel 14. Tabs F2 are alsofolded back fully about fold lines 49 a, 49 b and into apertures insecond outer side panel 20 that were defined by the tabs F2. Theseapertures allow the untreated surfaces of tabs F2 to be brought intoface-contacting relationship with an untreated surface of second innerside panel 18. The untreated surfaces of tabs F2 are secured to theuntreated surface of second inner side panel 18. These steps result inthe partially-constructed carton shown in FIG. 3D.

First end panel 30 is folded inwardly about fold line 54, therebyorienting first end panel 30 in a substantially vertical orientation.Second end panel 32 is folded inwardly about fold line 64, therebyorienting second end panel 32 in a substantially vertical orientation.These steps result in the partially-constructed carton shown in FIG. 3E.

Glue or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the treated surfacesof first, second, third, and fourth inner end flaps 26, 28, 34, 36 or,alternatively to corresponding portions of the untreated surfaces offirst and second end panels 30, 32. First, second, third, and fourthinner end flaps 26, 28, 34, 36 (together with first, second, third andfourth outer end flaps 22, 24, 38, 40) are folded inwardly aboutrespective fold lines 52, 62, 56, 66 such that the treated surfaces offirst and third inner end flaps 26, 34 are brought into face-contactingrelationship with the untreated surface of first end panel 30, and thetreated surfaces of second and fourth inner end flaps 28, 36 are broughtinto face-contacting relationship with the untreated surface of secondend panel 32. The treated surfaces of first and third inner end flaps26, 34 are secured to the untreated surface of first end panel 30. Thetreated surfaces of second and fourth inner end flaps 28, 36 are securedto the untreated surface of second end panel 32. These steps result inthe fully-constructed carton as shown in FIG. 2.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the folded-over tabs F1, F2 project upwardsfrom an upper edge of the carton's side walls forming stacking tabs thatare configured to facilitate secure stacking of multiple cartons. Thestacking tabs of a first carton are configured to be received withinside apertures C1, C2 of a second carton. In addition to facilitatingcarton stacking, side apertures C1, C2 may also promote cartonventilation and/or drainage. End apertures C3, C4 and overlappingcutouts C6 may also facilitate carton stacking, ventilation, and/ordrainage. Overlapping cutouts C5 of first inner and outer end flaps 26,22 align with overlapping cutouts C5 of third inner and outer end flaps34, 38 to form a first handle structure H1. Overlapping cutouts C5 ofsecond inner and outer end flaps 28, 24 align with overlapping cutoutsC5 of fourth inner and outer end flaps 36, 40 to form a second handlestructure H2 (not shown) that may generally mirror handle structure H1.Handle structures H1, H2 are configured to receive a user's fingers tofacilitate lifting and carrying of the carton. In the illustratedembodiment, the handle structures H1, H2 do not extend completelythrough the carton's end walls. Such a configuration may be desirable toprevent a user's fingers from entering into the interior of the cartonand bruising sensitive produce or to prevent smaller articles fromspilling out through the handles. In other embodiments, however, endpanels 30, 32 may include handle cutouts aligned with cutouts C5 so asto create handle structures that extend completely through the carton'send walls.

Advantageously, blank 10 can produce a carton 200 having a treatedsurface (e.g., printing or water-resistant coating) on all sides withthe exception of the lower surface of the base wall (i.e., the surfaceon which the carton 200 rests) without the need to treat both sides ofthe blank 10, although in certain embodiments both sides of the blankmay be treated. Thus, the interior and exterior surfaces of the side andend walls as well as the interior surface of the base wall are alltreated. As another advantage, the interior surfaces of the carton'sside and end walls can be substantially smooth and uninterrupted byfolded edges, reducing the risk of fruit damage and providing a cleansurface for presentation of informational or promotional content.

With reference now to FIGS. 5-6, a carton 500 for containing a pluralityof articles includes a bottom wall 502, a first side wall 504 coupled tothe bottom wall 502 along fold line 505, a second side wall 506 disposedopposite the first side wall 504 and coupled to the bottom wall 502along fold line 507, a first end wall 508 coupled to both the bottomwall 502 along fold line 509, and the first and second side walls 504,506 along fold lines 511, 513, and a second end wall 510 disposedopposite the first end wall 508 and coupled to both the bottom wall 502and the first and second side walls 504, 506, along fold lines 515, 517,and 519 respectively. Each of the bottom wall 502, the first and secondside walls 504, 506, and the first and second end walls, 508, 510 defineboth an interior surface 572 disposed adjacent an interior space 580defined by the carton 500 and an exterior surface 570.

The carton 500 can be formed from a blank 520 having a first surface anda second surface disposed opposed opposite to the first surface, asdescribed above, e.g. with reference to FIGS. 1-2. The interior surfaceof the bottom wall 502, and the interior 525, 527, 529, 531 and exterior524, 526, 528, 530 surfaces of the first and second side walls 504, 506and first and second end walls 508, 510 are each defined substantiallyentirely by the first surface. The first side wall 504, second side wall506, first end wall 508, and second end wall 510 define an upper edge540 opposite the bottom wall, wherein the upper edge 540 definesrectangular portions 541 that follow a rectangle (for example, as shownin FIGS. 5-6), and wherein the upper edge 540 defines at least one edgeportion 642 that is oblique relative to rectangular portions.

The blank 520 comprises a plurality of main panels 521 hinged togetherin a linear series, the plurality of main panels 521 comprising firstand second inner side panels 544, 546, first and second outer sidepanels, 545, 547, and a bottom panel, 548. The first outer side panel545 is hingedly connected to the first inner side panel 544 along foldline 650 (forming a portion of upper edge 540), the first inner side 544panel is hingedly connected to the bottom panel 548 along fold line 505,the bottom panel 548 is hingedly connected to the second inner sidepanel 546 along fold line 507, and the second inner side panel 546 ishingedly connected to the second outer side panel 547 along fold line652 (forming a portion of upper edge 540). The first outer side panel545 defines the exterior surface 524 of the first side wall 504, thefirst inner side panel 544 defines the interior surface 525 of the firstside wall 504, the bottom panel 548 defines the exterior 523 andinterior 522 surfaces of the bottom wall 502, the second inner sidepanel 546 defines the interior surface 527 of the second side wall 506,and the second outer side panel 547 defines the exterior surface 526 ofthe second side wall 506. First and second end panels 532, 534 arehingedly connected to the bottom panel 548 at respective opposite endsof the bottom panel 548 along fold lines 509, 515, wherein the first endpanel 532 defines the interior surface 529 of the first end wall 508 andwherein the second end panel 534 defines the interior surface 531 of thesecond end wall 510.

The blank 520 can include first and second inner end flaps 550, 552hingedly connected to the first inner side panel 544 at respectiveopposite ends of the first inner side panel 544 along fold lines 651,653. The blank 520 can include third and fourth inner end flaps 554, 556hingedly connected to the second inner side panel 546 at respectiveopposite ends of the second inner side panel 546 along fold lines 655,657. The blank 520 can include first and second outer end flaps, 558,560 hingedly connected to the first outer side panel 545 at respectiveopposite ends of the first outer side panel 545 along fold lines 511,517. Third and fourth outer end flaps 562, 564 can be hingedly connectedto the second outer side panel 547 at respective opposite ends of thesecond outer side panel 547 along fold lines 513, 519.

The first and third outer end flaps 558, 562 can define the exteriorsurface 528 of the first end wall 508 along a first perimeter length P1of the upper edge 540. The first end panel 532 can be adjacent the firstand third inner end flaps 550, 554 and can define a second perimeterlength P2 along the upper edge 540 that is greater than the first lengthP1 so that the first end panel 532 bows inward to define the at leastone edge portion 642 that is oblique relative to rectangular portions,which can be the case on both ends of the carton 500 as indicated by theexaggerated curved double arrows in FIG. 6.

The folding procedure for blank 520 is similar to that described abovewith respect to FIGS. 2 and 3A-E. Folding the first, second, third, andfourth inner end flaps 550, 552, 554, 556 and folding the first, second,third, and forth outer end flaps 558, 560, 562, 564 can include bowingthe first end panel 532 inward to define the at least one edge portion541 that is oblique relative to the rectangular portions, and similarlybowing the second end panel 534.

As shown in FIGS. 7-8, a similar blank 720 and carton 700 to blank 520and the carton 500 are shown. The first inner end flap 750 is connectedto the first inner side panel 744 by first oblique corner panel 742 aalong fold lines 751 a and 751 b. The third inner end flap 754 can beconnected to the second inner side panel 746 through a second obliquecorner panel 742 b along fold lines 755 a and 755 b, wherein the firstand second oblique corner panels 742 a, b define the at least one edgeportion 742 that is oblique relative to the rectangular portions 741 ofthe upper edge 740.

With continued reference to FIGS. 7-8, the first outer end flap 758 canbe foldably connected directly to the first outer side panel 745 by afold line 711 without an intervening oblique corner panel, wherein thefirst oblique corner panel 742 a, first outer side panel 745, and firstouter end flap 758 surround a first triangular corner pocket 744 a. Thethird outer end flap 762 can be connected directly to the second outerside panel 747 by a fold line 713 without an intervening corner panel,wherein the second oblique corner panel 742 b, the second outer sidepanel 747, and the third outer end flap 762 surround a second triangularcorner pocket 744 b. The first and second triangular corner pockets 744a, 744 b can form a first pair of pockets 744 a, 744 b at a first end766 of the interior space 780. The interior space 780 can have a secondend 768 opposite the first end 766, wherein the second end includes asecond pair of pockets 744 c, 744 d mirroring the first pair of pockets.

It is also contemplated that a method for forming a carton 700 caninclude the method as described above, and can further include forming afirst triangular corner pocket 744 a-d wherein the first oblique cornerpanel 742 a, first outer side panel 545, and first outer end flap 758surround a first triangular corner pocket 744 a and forming a secondtriangular pocket 744 b wherein the second oblique corner panel 742 b,the second outer side panel 747, and the third outer end flap 762surround a second triangular corner pocket 744 b.

With reference now to FIGS. 9 and 10, a blank 920 and carton 900 similarto blank 720 and carton 700 are shown. The first outer end flap 958 canbe connected to the first outer side panel 545 by a third oblique cornerpanel 946 a along fold lines 911 a, b that overlies the first obliquecorner panel 942 a and forms a portion of the exterior surface 970. Thethird outer end flap 962 can be connected to the second outer side panel947 by a fourth oblique corner panel 946 b along fold lines 913 a, bthat overlies the second oblique corner panel 942 b and forms a portionof the exterior surface 970. The first, second, third, and forth obliquecorner panels 942 a, 942 b, 946 a, 946 b can form a first pair ofoblique corners 1002 of the interior 972 and exterior 970 surfaces at afirst end 966 of the interior space 980. The interior space 980 can havea second end 968 opposite the first end which includes a second pair ofoblique corners 1004 mirroring the first pair of oblique corners 1002.The oblique corners 1002, 1004 define the at least one edge portion thatis oblique relative to the rectangular portions 941 of the upper edge940.

It is further contemplated that a method for forming a carton 900 caninclude the method as described above and can further include foldingthe first outer end flap 958, wherein the first outer end flap 958 isconnected to the first outer side panel 945 by a third oblique cornerpanel 946 a that overlies a first oblique corner panel 942 a and forms aportion of the exterior surface 970, and folding the third outer endflap 962 wherein the third outer end flap 962 is connected to the secondouter side panel 947 by a fourth oblique corner panel 946 b thatoverlies a second oblique corner panel 942 b and forms a portion of theexterior surface 970.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scopeof the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panelsmay be adjusted to create cartons having different sizes and dimensions.As another example, in certain embodiments, both sides (or neither side)of the blank may be treated.

It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references suchas “top”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”,“upper” and “lower” do not limit the respective panels to suchorientation, but merely serve to distinguish these panels from oneanother. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed asnecessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is envisagedthat a hinged connection can be formed from one or more of thefollowing: a short slit, a frangible line or a fold line, withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. It can be appreciated thatvarious changes may be made within the scope of the present invention.For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may beadjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” eachrefers to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank orsubstrate of sheet material, facilitate folding portions of the blank orsubstrate of sheet material with respect to one another, or otherwiseindicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank or substrate ofsheet material. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not beconstrued as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed ahinged connection can be formed from one or more fold lines.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following:a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line ofperforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a singlehalf-cut, an interrupted cut line, aligned slits, a line of short scoresand any combination of the aforesaid options, without departing from thescope of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “weakened line of severance”, “severance line”and “frangible line” each may refer to all manner of lines formed in theblank or substrate of sheet material that facilitate separating portionsof the blank or substrate of sheet material from one another, orotherwise that indicate optimal separation locations on the blank orsubstrate. As used herein, the terms “weakened line of severance”,“severance line” and “frangible line” each may refer to one of thefollowing: a single cut line, a single partial-depth cut line (e.g., asingle half-cut line), an interrupted cut line, a score line, aninterrupted score line, a line of perforations, a line of short cuts, aline of short slits, a line of short partial-depth cuts (e.g., a line ofshort half cuts), and any combination of the aforementioned options.

It should be understood that hinged connections, fold lines, weakenedlines of severance, frangible lines and severance lines can eachincludes elements that are formed in the blank or substrate of sheetmaterial, including perforations, a line of perforations, a line ofshort slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cut line, aninterrupted cut line, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and thelike. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide thedesired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can bedimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold lineand/or a frangible line. The line of perforations can be designed tofacilitate folding and resist breaking to provide a fold line, tofacilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort to provide afrangible fold line, or to facilitate breaking with little effort toprovide a frangible line.

What is claimed is:
 1. A carton for containing a plurality of articles,the carton comprising: a bottom wall, a first side wall coupled to thebottom wall, a second side wall disposed opposite the first side walland coupled to the bottom wall, a first end wall coupled to both thebottom wall and the first and second side walls, and a second end walldisposed opposite the first end wall and coupled to both the bottom walland the first and second side walls; wherein each of the bottom wall,the first and second side walls, and the first and second end wallsdefine both an interior surface disposed adjacent an interior spacedefined by the carton and an exterior surface; wherein the carton isformed from a blank comprising a first surface and a second surfacedisposed opposed opposite to the first surface; wherein the interiorsurface of the bottom wall, and the interior and exterior surfaces ofthe first and second side walls and first and second end walls are eachdefined substantially entirely by the first surface; and wherein thefirst side wall, second side wall, first end wall, and second end walldefine an upper edge opposite the bottom wall, wherein the upper edgedefines rectangular portions that follow a rectangle, and wherein theupper edge defines at least one edge portion that is oblique relative torectangular portions.
 2. The carton as recited in claim 1, wherein theblank comprises a plurality of main panels hinged together in a linearseries, the plurality of main panels comprising first and second innerside panels, first and second outer side panels, and a bottom panel;wherein the first outer side panel is hingedly connected to the firstinner side panel, the first inner side panel is hingedly connected tothe bottom panel, the bottom panel is hingedly connected to the secondinner side panel, and the second inner side panel is hingedly connectedto the second outer side panel; wherein the first outer side paneldefines the exterior surface of the first side wall, the first innerside panel defines the interior surface of the first side wall, thebottom panel defines the exterior and interior surfaces of the bottomwall, the second inner side panel defines the interior surface of thesecond side wall, and the second outer side panel defines the exteriorsurface of the second side wall; and wherein the blank further comprisesfirst and second end panels hingedly connected to the bottom panel atrespective opposite ends of the bottom panel, wherein the first endpanel defines the interior surface of the first end wall and wherein thesecond end panel defines the interior surface of the second end wall. 3.The carton as recited in claim 2, wherein the blank further comprisesfirst and second inner end flaps hingedly connected to the first innerside panel at respective opposite ends of the first inner side panel;wherein the blank further comprises third and fourth inner end flapshingedly connected to the second inner side panel at respective oppositeends of the second inner side panel; wherein the blank further comprisesfirst and second outer end flaps hingedly connected to the first outerside panel at respective opposite ends of the first outer side panel;and wherein the blank further comprises third and fourth outer end flapshingedly connected to the second outer side panel at respective oppositeends of the second outer side panel.
 4. The carton as recited in claim3, wherein the first and third outer end flaps define the exteriorsurface of the first end wall along a first perimeter length of theupper edge; and wherein the first end panel is adjacent the first andthird inner end flaps and defines a second length along the upper edgethat is greater than the first length so that the first end panel bowsinward to define the at least one edge portion that is oblique relativeto rectangular portions.
 5. The carton as recited in claim 3, whereinthe first inner end flap is connected to the first inner side panel byfirst oblique corner panel; and wherein the third inner end flap isconnected to the second inner side panel through a second oblique cornerpanel, wherein the first and second oblique corner panels define the atleast one edge portion that is oblique relative to the rectangularportions.
 6. The carton as recited in claim 5, wherein the first outerend flap is foldably connected directly to the first outer side panel bya fold line without an intervening oblique corner panel, wherein thefirst oblique corner panel, first outer side panel, and first outer endflap surround a first triangular corner pocket; and wherein the thirdouter end flap is connected directly to the second outer side panel by afold line without an intervening corner panel, wherein the secondoblique corner panel, the second outer side panel, and the third outerend flap surround a second triangular corner pocket.
 7. The carton asrecited in claim 6, wherein the first and second triangular cornerpockets form a first pair of pockets at a first end of the interiorspace; and wherein the interior space has a second end opposite thefirst end, wherein the second end includes a second pair of pocketsmirroring the first pair of pockets.
 8. The carton as recited in claim5, wherein the first outer end flap is connected to the first outer sidepanel by a third oblique corner panel that overlies the first obliquecorner panel and forms a portion of the exterior surface; and whereinthe third outer end flap is connected to the second outer side panel bya fourth oblique corner panel that overlies the second oblique cornerpanel and forms a portion of the exterior surface.
 9. The carton asrecited in claim 8, wherein the first, second, third, and forth obliquecorner panels form a first pair of oblique corners of the interior andexterior surfaces at a first end of the interior space; and wherein theinterior space has a second end opposite the first end which includes asecond pair of oblique corners mirroring the first pair of obliquecorners.
 10. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising: a firstsurface; a second surface disposed opposite to the first surface, and aplurality of panels and flaps, the plurality of panels and flapsconfigured to form a set-up carton defining a bottom wall, a first sidewall coupled to the bottom wall, a second side wall disposed oppositethe first side wall and coupled to the bottom wall, a first end wallcoupled to both the bottom wall and the first and second side walls, anda second end wall disposed opposite the first end wall and coupled toboth the bottom wall and the first and second side walls; wherein eachof the bottom wall, the first and second side walls, and the first andsecond end walls define both an interior surface disposed adjacent aninterior space defined by the set-up carton and an exterior surface;wherein the interior surface of the bottom wall, and the interior andexterior surfaces of the first and second side walls and first andsecond end walls are each defined substantially entirely by the firstsurface; and wherein the first side wall, second side wall, first endwall, and second end wall define an upper edge opposite the bottom wall,wherein the upper edge defines rectangular portions that follow arectangle, and wherein the upper edge defines at least one edge portionthat is oblique relative to rectangular portions.
 11. The blank asrecited in claim 10, wherein the blank comprises a plurality of mainpanels hinged together in a linear series, the plurality of main panelscomprising first and second inner side panels, first and second outerside panels, and a bottom panel; wherein the first outer side panel ishingedly connected to the first inner side panel, the first inner sidepanel is hingedly connected to the bottom panel, the bottom panel ishingedly connected to the second inner side panel, and the second innerside panel is hingedly connected to the second outer side panel; whereinthe first outer side panel defines the exterior surface of the firstside wall, the first inner side panel defines the interior surface ofthe first side wall, the bottom panel defines the exterior and interiorsurfaces of the bottom wall, the second inner side panel defines theinterior surface of the second side wall, and the second outer sidepanel defines the exterior surface of the second side wall; and whereinthe blank further comprises first and second end panels hingedlyconnected to the bottom panel at respective opposite ends of the bottompanel, wherein the first end panel defines the interior surface of thefirst end wall and wherein the second end panel defines the interiorsurface of the second end wall.
 12. The blank as recited in claim 11,wherein the blank further comprises first and second inner end flapshingedly connected to the first inner side panel at respective oppositeends of the first inner side panel; wherein the blank further comprisesthird and fourth inner end flaps hingedly connected to the second innerside panel at respective opposite ends of the second inner side panel;wherein the blank further comprises first and second outer end flapshingedly connected to the first outer side panel at respective oppositeends of the first outer side panel; and wherein the blank furthercomprises third and fourth outer end flaps hingedly connected to thesecond outer side panel at respective opposite ends of the second outerside panel.
 13. The blank as recited in claim 12, wherein the first andthird outer end flaps define the exterior surface of the first end wallalong a first perimeter length of the upper edge; and wherein the firstend panel is adjacent the first and third inner end flaps and defines asecond length along the upper edge that is greater than the first lengthso that the first end panel bows inward to define the at least one edgeportion that is oblique relative to rectangular portions.
 14. The blankas recited in claim 12, wherein the first inner end flap is connected tothe first inner side panel by first oblique corner panel; and whereinthe third inner end flap is connected to the second inner side panelthrough a second oblique corner panel, wherein the first and secondoblique corner panels define the at least one edge portion that isoblique relative to the rectangular portions.
 15. The blank as recitedin claim 14, wherein the first outer end flap is foldably connecteddirectly to the first outer side panel by a fold line without anintervening oblique corner panel, wherein the first oblique cornerpanel, first outer side panel, and first outer end flap surround a firsttriangular corner pocket; and wherein the third outer end flap isconnected directly to the second outer side panel by a fold line withoutan intervening corner panel, wherein the second oblique corner panel,the second outer side panel, and the third outer end flap surround asecond triangular corner pocket.
 16. The blank as recited in claim 15,wherein the first and second triangular corner pockets form a first pairof pockets at a first end of the interior space; and wherein theinterior space has a second end opposite the first end, wherein thesecond end includes a second pair of pockets mirroring the first pair ofpockets.
 17. The blank as recited in claim 14, wherein the first outerend flap is connected to the first inner side panel by a third obliquecorner panel that overlies the first oblique corner panel and forms aportion of the exterior surface; and wherein the third inner end flap isconnected to the second inner side panel by a fourth oblique cornerpanel that overlies the second oblique corner panel and forms a portionof the exterior surface.
 18. The blank as recited in claim 17, whereinthe first, second, third, and forth oblique corner panels form a firstpair of oblique corners of the interior and exterior surfaces at a firstend of the interior space; and wherein the interior space has a secondend opposite the first end which includes a second pair of obliquecorners mirroring the first pair of oblique corners.
 19. A method offorming a carton comprising: providing a blank having a first blank sideand a second blank side disposed opposite the first blank side, theblank comprising a plurality of main panels hinged together in a linearseries, the plurality of main panels comprising a bottom panel, firstand second inner side panels, and first and second outer side panels,wherein the first outer side panel is hingedly connected to the firstinner side panel, the first inner side panel is hingedly connected tothe bottom panel, the bottom panel is hingedly connected to the secondinner side panel, and the second inner side panel is hingedly connectedto the second outer side panel, the blank further comprising first andsecond end panels, first, second, third, and fourth inner end flaps, andfirst, second, third, and fourth outer end flaps, wherein the first andsecond end panels are hingedly connected to the bottom panel atrespective opposite ends of the bottom panel, the first and second outerend flaps are hingedly connected to the first outer side panel atrespective opposite ends of the first outer side panel, the third andfourth outer end flaps are hingedly connected to the second outer sidepanel at respective opposite ends of the second outer side panel, thefirst and second inner end flaps are hingedly connected to the firstinner side panel at respective opposite ends of the first inner sidepanel, and the third and fourth inner end flaps are hingedly connectedto the second inner side panel at respective opposite ends of the secondinner side panel; folding the first outer side panel back onto the firstinner side panel and securing it thereto such that second blank sidesurfaces of the first outer side panel and the first inner side panelare coupled together in a face-contacting relationship; folding thesecond outer side panel back onto the first inner side panel andsecuring it thereto such that second blank side surfaces of the secondouter side panel and the second inner side panel are coupled together ina face-contacting relationship; folding the first outer side panel andthe first inner side panel about the bottom panel so as to form a firstside wall of the carton, an exterior surface of the first side wallbeing defined by a first blank side surface of the first outer sidepanel and an interior surface of the first side wall being defined by afirst blank side surface of the first inner side panel, a first blankside surface of the bottom panel defining an interior surface of abottom wall of the carton; folding the second outer side panel and thesecond inner side panel about the bottom panel so as to form a secondside wall of the carton, an exterior surface of the second side wallbeing defined by a first blank side surface of the second outer sidepanel and an interior surface of the second side wall being defined by afirst blank side surface of the second inner side panel; folding thefirst and second end panels about the bottom panel to form respectivefirst and second end walls of the carton, a first blank side surface ofthe first end panel defining an interior surface of the first end wall,a first blank side surface of the second end panel defining an interiorsurface of the second end wall; and folding the first and third innerend flaps and the first and third outer end flaps into an overlappingarrangement with a second blank side of the first end panel and securingthem thereto, a first blank side surface of the first and third outerend flaps defining an exterior surface of the first end wall; foldingthe second and fourth inner end flaps and the second and fourth outerend flaps into an overlapping arrangement with a second blank side ofthe second end panel and securing them thereto, a first blank sidesurface of the second and fourth outer end flaps defining an exteriorsurface of the second end wall, wherein the first side wall, second sidewall, first end wall, and second end wall define an upper edge oppositethe bottom wall, wherein the upper edge defines rectangular portionsthat follow a rectangle, and wherein the upper edge defines at least oneedge portion that is oblique relative to rectangular portions.
 20. Themethod as recited in claim 19, wherein folding the first, second, third,and fourth inner end flaps and folding the first, second, third, andforth outer end flaps includes bowing the first end panel inward todefine the at least one edge portion that is oblique relative to therectangular portions.
 21. The method as recited in claim 19, whereinfolding the first, second, third, and fourth inner end flaps and foldingthe first, second, third, and forth outer end flaps includes forming afirst triangular corner pocket wherein the first oblique corner panel,first outer side panel, and first outer end flap surround a firsttriangular corner pocket; and forming a second triangular pocket whereinthe second oblique corner panel, the second outer side panel, and thethird outer end flap surround a second triangular corner pocket.
 22. Themethod as recited in claim 19, wherein folding the first, second, third,and fourth inner end flaps and folding the first, second, third, andforth outer end flaps includes folding the first outer end flap, whereinthe first outer end flap is connected to the first outer side panel by athird oblique corner panel that overlies a first oblique corner paneland forms a portion of the exterior surface; and folding the third outerend flap wherein the third outer end flap is connected to the secondouter side panel by a fourth oblique corner panel that overlies a secondoblique corner panel and forms a portion of the exterior surface.